The Republican maintains a big lead in the special election, with the results to be certified later this week.

Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in the special election race for California’s 36th State Senate District, promising to counter the policies of Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Democratic supermajority in the legislature once he joins lawmakers in Sacramento.

Huntington Beach City Councilman Tony Strickland appeared Wednesday to be headed for a victory in the 36th Senate District special election without the need of a runoff with 51.1% of the vote, according to unofficial results.

Huntington Beach City Councilman Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in his run for another term in the state Senate and will resign from his council seat next week.